Born in 1991, Chef Doğukan Kaya discovered his passion for cooking at a young age. Encouraged by a family who recognised his natural curiosity for gastronomy, he began his training at a culinary high school, establishing the foundation for what would become a dedicated and steadily rising career.

Over the past 15 years, he has gained experience in several respected fine-dining restaurants across Istanbul, Bodrum, Moscow and Sochi. Immersed in a variety of culinary cultures and techniques, these international roles shaped his creative approach and broadened his understanding of contemporary cuisine.

For the last five years, Doğukan has been an integral part of the Sakhalin Restaurant team, where he currently serves as Head Chef. Combining technical precision with a distinctive personal style, he creates dishes that reflect both his global influences and his commitment to continuous innovation. His cooking is guided by curiosity, clarity of flavour and a desire to express a story through every plate he sends to the table.